Working to pave the way for the development of next generation wireless technology, U.S. Rep. Susan Brooks introduced a resolution in support of promoting the deployment of fifth generation mobile networks (5G) to fuel economic growth.
“5G technology unleashes possibilities that we have only imagined up until this point, such as driverless vehicles to create safer commutes to and from work, wireless security devices to secure our homes even when we are not there, and almost instant connectivity with first responders in the time of emergency,” Brooks said.
Brooks introduced H.Res. 521 with U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI). The congresswomen are co-founders and co-chairs of the 5G Caucus.
The new technology will help connect billions of devices, creating opportunities for improved efficiency, mobility and accessibility. Development of 5G networks will increase download speeds up to 10 gigabits per second and allow for more reliable connections and greater data capacity.
The resolution also seeks to advance 5G networks in order to reduce the disparity in communications services available in rural areas.
“5G will help close the digital divide—it has the potential to make troubles of accessing internet in rural communities an issue of the past,” Brooks said.
New 5G networks are seen creating more than 3 million U.S. jobs and generating $500 billion to the economy of the United States over the next decade, according to the text of the resolution. Telecom operators are projected to invest $275 billion in the technology.
The 5G networks will also support innovation and productivity through numerous technological developments across a range of industries and applications, including telemedicine, precision agriculture, self-driving cars, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, smart communities, and advancements in public safety, the resolution said.
“I am proud to introduce this legislation with Congresswoman Brooks and look forward to exploring how 5G will impact our communities and how Congress can help lay the groundwork for this emerging technology that will improve our economy and grow innovation for years to come,” Dingell said.
The resolution was referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee.